Va. officials celebrate the bald eagle’s comeback and centuries as national symbol

By: Shannon Heckt

Outlets: Virginia Mercury

Published: May 18, 2026

Words: 627

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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The bald eagle became a national symbol in 1782, appearing on the U.S. seal and government documents. But despite representing the country for almost 250 years, the raptor did not officially become the nation’s bird until 2024, when Congress passed legislation declaring it so and then-President Joe Biden signed it into law.

Virginia lawmakers, conservationists and wildlife experts are working to protect the species’ future, as the nation prepares to mark its semiquincentennial this …

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